CHOLINE

Toxicity

Oral rat LD50: 3400 mg/kg

Description

Choline is a water-soluble B vitamin. Unlike most vitamins, it is cationic, which accounts for its solubility.
In 1862, German chemist Adolph Strecker* isolated choline from the bile of pigs and oxen. (Its name is derived from the Greek word for bile.) A few years later, German pharmacologist Oscar Liebreich synthesized choline in the lab.
Choline is an essential nutrient for animals, but humans do not need to ingest it in food or as a dietary supplement unless their diet is low in methionine and folate. If choline supplementation is needed, eggs and meat are excellent sources.
Choline oxidation by gut bacteria is a likely harbinger of heart disease. In 2015, Emily Balskus and her research team at Harvard discovered that?microorganisms use the enzyme choline TMA-ylase to break a C–N bond in cholineto form trimethylamine, which then oxidizes to trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO). The Cleveland Clinic’s Stanley Hazen previously linked TMAO to heart problems.
*Strecker is better known for his synthesis of amino acids from nonbiochemical starting materials.

Chemical properties

Viscous, alkaline liquid. Soluble in water and alcohol. Amounts are expressed in milligrams of choline.

The Uses of CHOLINE

Choline is a substance grouped as a member of the vitamin b complex, although not a vitamin by definition. it is water soluble and is important in nerve function and fat metabolism. it occurs in egg yolk, beef liver, and grains.

Indications

For nutritional supplementation, also for treating dietary shortage or imbalance

Background

A basic constituent of lecithin that is found in many plants and animal organs. It is important as a precursor of acetylcholine, as a methyl donor in various metabolic processes, and in lipid metabolism.

Definition

ChEBI: A choline that is the parent compound of the cholines class, consisting of ethanolamine having three methyl substituents attached to the amino function.

Pharmacokinetics

This compound is needed for good nerve conduction throughout the CNS (central nervous system) as it is a precursor to acetylcholine (ACh). Choline is also needed for gallbladder regulation, liver function and lecithin (a key lipid) formation. Choline also aids in fat and cholesterol metabolism and prevents excessive fat build up in the liver. Choline has been used to mitigate the effects of Parkinsonism and tardive dyskinesia. Choline deficiencies may result in excessive build-up of fat in the liver, high blood pressure, gastric ulcers, kidney and liver dysfunction and stunted growth.

Metabolism

Not Available